THE VICTORIAN ARTISTS SOCIETY WELCOMES NEW AND EXISTING MEMBERS
'Baristas at Brunetti, Melbourne', oil painting by Lisa Wang Highly Commended Award, VAS Winter Select Exhibition 2020
To be a member of VAS is to be part of one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious art organisations.
Our recently restored heritage building is a unique place in Melbourne where artists and art lovers come together to exhibit, celebrate, learn and connect.
Membership is for 12 months from the date of joining. If you are a current member, renewing your membership early will extend your membership another 12 months from its current expiry date.
Member benefits
Seasonal Select Exhibitions
Autumn, Winter and Spring Select Exhibitions are our prestige showcases for members. All members are eligible to submit sculptures and hanging work for consideration, from which a panel select works for display in the three upper galleries. Exhibiting artists and artist members are invited to cast votes for their four favourite works. These votes are used to determine the candidates for the Artist of the Year Award exhibition.
Shown: Study of Finches, Rachel Dettman-Smith
The Hylton Mackley AM FVAS Artist of the YEar AWARD
The Hylton Mackley AM VAS Artist of the Year Award Sponsored by the Mackley Family showcases the best artistic talent in painting and sculpture. Artists are selected based on participation in at least two of that year’s Select Exhibitions. This award is unique as it is awarded by the peers of the winning artist and demands sustained performance over the exhibiting year. In 2024, the major award is $12,000.
See the full exhibition terms and conditions here.
Shown: Through the Clouds, Joe Whyte 2023 Artist of the Year
Member Exhibitions
Members are invited to exhibit works for sale in a diverse program of exhibitions, including Contemporary, Portraiture, Maritime, 9x5 Boards and more. Artists wishing to give a solo or group show receive priority booking and discounted rates on gallery hire, or may show in the Mackley Members Room for a nominal hanging fee.
Shown: Shared Sorrow, Zoja Trofimiuk
VAS Studio
Our original studio is a haven for professional and recreational artists alike. The VAS Art School page details upcoming classes and workshops, along with weekly portrait and life drawing sessions, all at a generous discount to VAS members. Oil painting, watercolour, soft media, acrylic, digital art and a variety of sculpture practices make the studio a vibrant creative hub for the Society.
Shown: VAS Artist Nathalie Henningsen at work
Plein Air Painting Group
Experience the joy of Plein air painting in the company of like-minded people on regularly scheduled days and trips. A perfect way to keep a visual artists’ diary and create memories with fellow artists. These events are exclusive to members and take place at a variety of parks, coastal locations and natural wildernesses.
Online Showcase
All VAS members have the opportunity to create an artist profile on the VAS website, and artists are regularly promoted through newsletters and social media. Attached to the profile, artists may present artworks for sale as part of the VAS Online Gallery and Online Exhibitions.
Shown: An Artist's Corner, Mary Hyde
VAS Social
Along with exceptional art, The Victorian Artists Society prides itself on creating a welcoming and inclusive space. Whether you're looking to build your professional network, attend an evening at the Gallery or lend your skills as a volunteer, you'll find likeminded artists and art lovers to connect with at the VAS.
VAS Magazine
Keep up to date with the lates on exhibitions and events, enjoy in-depth feature articles and relax with a crossword puzzle. The VAS Magazine is free to members and article submissions are also welcome!
Shown: Aussie Combo, Zulu
Discount at Senior Art Supply
VAS Members can show their membership card to receive a 10% discount at all Senior Art stores.
Choose Your Membership
VAS membership is an annual subscription and runs from the moment you sign up, with a first-time joining fee of $50.
We have a convenient online system, which allows you to join and pay any time of day. Simply choose from the memberships below and follow the steps.
You can also contact the office on 03 9662 1484, ask questions and join over the phone.
Acknowledgment of traditional owners.
We would like to pay our respects to the traditional owners of the land on which our building stands, their leaders, past, present and emerging.